Pony E-News: A post-election message to students and families

Stillwater Area Public Schools sent this bulletin at 11/11/2016 04:02 PM CST

Nov. 11, 2016 - Happy Veterans Day

Thank you to our veterans!

Students across the district celebrated our nation's veterans this week. Pictured at left, Valley Crossing Elementary School students invited veterans in their life to attend a special ceremony. Check out Facebook for more photos from across the district.

Dear Pony Families,

The divisive and contentious election season
we’ve lived through as a nation, and even in our local communities, has taken
its toll on all of us. I know that many of our students, staff and community
members are feeling anxious and concerned about what the future holds.

While there are many things we cannot predict,
there are a few things of which we are certain. We live in an incredible
community with a collective heart for its children. As educators, parents,
friends and neighbors we are here for all of our students and know that each of
them is an important part of the Pony community. At times when anxiety may be
running high, it’s more important than ever to make sure our students know how
we feel about them – that they are welcome, valued, cared for and believed in.

Together as
parents and as educators, we can model and teach our students how to move
forward with grace and how to treat one another with dignity. We've had conversations in some of our classrooms and one-on-one with students who have expressed concerns or asked questions. Our counselors, student advocates,
principals, teachers and staff are available to help listen and care for students
who need additional support. Let your children know if they are experiencing
any difficulties due to others’ behaviors, they should share their concerns
with an adult at school or at home.

Please join us in our efforts by talking with your children about the
need to treat each other with respect, and value and honor differing
perspectives. Kindness and respect begins with each one of us. We all have the choice to move forward together or to stand divided. Which will you choose?

It's my hope we'll all choose to spread kindness throughout our Stillwater Area Public Schools' community!

Swimmers extend unbeaten streak to 140

The girls swimming and diving team won their 14th consecutive conference title and finished off another undefeated dual meet season! The Ponies extended their unbeaten streak to 140 in a row, including 119 straight conference duals dating back to 2002. They will compete in the section tournament November 10-12 at Stillwater Junior High.

What do you think we should call our middle schools?

Contingency plan approved for elementary boundaries

The school board approved the contingency plan for elementary boundaries. The plan would only take affect if a decision on school closures were overturned. A decision on contingency boundaries for middle schools was delayed based on concerns raised by Rutherford and Andersen families regarding the feeder system. The boundary committee will reconvene in December to discuss the middle school boundaries. Read more.

New board members to take office in January

Incumbent Mike Ptacek and newcomers Sarah Stivland and Jennifer Pelletier have been elected to the Stillwater Area Public School Board. Board members will be sworn into office in January.

Low cost meals for district families

Save on your grocery bills by visiting Fare for All on Nov. 14. Check out digital Backpack for information about resources available to families, as well as youth sports, activities, clubs, events and more!